TactoTek, a leader in In-Mold Structural Electronics (IMSE), recently signed a Manufacturing Partner Agreement with Symbiose, a French expert in printed electronics and In-Mold Electronics (IME). This collaboration directly addresses the surging need for IMSE solutions in global automotive projects. Symbiose contributes its proven strengths in high-precision flexible circuitry, functional foils, and vertically integrated production processes. Therefore, the partnership not only expands manufacturing capacity within the IMSE ecosystem but also ensures cost efficiencies for mass-scale applications. Both companies now collaborate closely on prototypes and high-volume initiatives, positioning IMSE as a reliable platform for automotive-grade components.
IMSE Technology Core and Symbiose Integration
IMSE technology from TactoTek seamlessly embeds lighting, touch controls, electrical components, and circuitry into three-dimensional molded structures, which fundamentally simplifies traditional multi-part assemblies. As a result, it creates lightweight, thin smart surfaces that deliver enhanced design aesthetics alongside superior performance and reduced overall system costs. Symbiose enhances this framework with its specialized capabilities in IME industrialization, including conductive ink screen printing, precise component pick-and-place operations, and high-pressure thermoforming for durable plastic parts.
Their vertically integrated setup allows for streamlined production of functional films that withstand automotive demands for performance and longevity. Under the agreement, Symbiose licenses IMSE technology outright, enabling immediate participation in ongoing automotive programs. This move builds on Symbiose’s established expertise in crafting active electronic surfaces—such as touch sensors and backlighting—directly onto flexible films, which mold effortlessly into final components. Consequently, the duo accelerates delivery of integrated solutions tailored for car interiors and interfaces.
Symbiose’s Proven Role in Printed Electronics
Symbiose, headquartered in Pugnac, France, specializes in designing and industrializing electronic surfaces through advanced printed electronics, with a sharp focus on IME applications across automotive, appliances, aerospace, and medical sectors. Their multidisciplinary team masters the full spectrum of processes, from integrating decorative elements to ensuring compact, reliable interfaces that prioritize both functionality and clean aesthetics. For instance, they excel at embedding conductive circuits and backlighting within plastic parts, which demands exacting standards for precision and durability.
This expertise aligns perfectly with IMSE requirements, as Symbiose already prepares for active automotive Requests for Quotation (RFQs) involving mass production. Jean-Pierre Estanol, CEO of Symbiose, emphasized the maturity of IMSE for large-scale automotive use and highlighted the natural expansion of their capabilities into this domain. Moreover, their industrial experience in high-volume IME manufacturing strengthens the entire supply chain, making scalable production more attainable. Thus, Symbiose not only licenses the technology but also actively contributes to prototype development and final output.
TactoTek’s Strategic Ecosystem Expansion
TactoTek welcomes Symbiose into its IMSE ecosystem, recognizing the French firm’s deep knowledge in advanced printed electronics and IME mass production as a vital supply chain enhancement. Jussi Harvela, TactoTek’s CEO, noted that this partnership underscores the rapid consolidation around IMSE as the leading industrial standard for structural electronics. With Symbiose’s involvement, the ecosystem gains robust capabilities for producing automotive-grade functional films that meet rigorous durability tests.
The agreement fosters joint efforts on real-world automotive programs, where IMSE solutions replace complex architectures with streamlined, cost-effective alternatives. Harvela further expressed confidence in the synergies, which promise innovative outcomes for market delivery. Meanwhile, Symbiose’s readiness for high-volume initiatives complements TactoTek’s pioneering role, ensuring broader access to mature technology. Overall, this alliance solidifies commitments to advancing structural electronics for next-generation mobility applications.
Partnership Details and Company Synergies
Both companies share a dedication to pioneering smart surface technologies, with Symbiose’s state-of-the-art processes optimizing materials and performance for demanding environments. TactoTek’s IMSE integrates functions directly into molded parts, while Symbiose’s IME prowess handles the intricacies of printed, flexible electronics under industrial conditions. Together, they tackle assembly complexities head-on, yielding thinner profiles and lighter weights without sacrificing reliability.
Symbiose’s focus on continuous innovation—spanning touch integration to thermoformed components—pairs seamlessly with TactoTek’s vision, creating a powerhouse for automotive innovation. This manufacturing pact licenses technology transfer, enabling Symbiose to engage fully in ecosystem projects. As Estanol and Harvela both affirmed, the collaboration unlocks significant opportunities in automotive sectors craving scalable, integrated electronics. In essence, it fortifies the path toward widespread adoption of these advanced solutions.
